Merwave and Rheal were among the big winners at the inaugural Scaleup North East Alumni Awards 2026.
The awards were established to recognise not only commercial success but also the ambition, leadership, innovation, teamwork and determination that underpin business growth.
Delivered by RTC North, the awards celebrated the businesses and individuals making a real impact on the North East’s thriving scaleup community.
Merwave founder Abigail Reid and Rheal co-founders Charlotte and Sean Ali were all included in BusinessCloud’s inaugural Founder 250 list.
Inspired by her own experiences, Reid founded Merwave in 2021 alongside her husband Tom, with a mission to transform the world of wavy haircare.
After picking up the Rising Star Award, Reid said: “Such a great night and honoured to be a winner.
“It’s always amazing to see how many businesses are thriving in the North East. I bloody love being a Geordie lass.”
Charlotte Ali came up with the idea for Rheal in 2017 after struggling with her health following a coeliac disease diagnosis.
The business has generated more than £50m in sales over the last three years and was crowned Outstanding Scaleup at the awards.
The ceremony was held at Tyne Bank in Newcastle and hosted by Charlie Charlton.
The 2026 award winners were:
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Growth Story Award: Inflo
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Innovation Award: iPac
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Rising Star Award: Merwave
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Team Performance Award: NET
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Social Impact Award: Better Health (Nursem)
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Scaleup Resilience Award: Pink Boutique
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Outstanding Scaleup Award: Rheal